Current Affairs - International - Discussion

The United Nations (UN) declared 2026 as the International Year for Rangelands and Pastoralists to spotlight ecosystems often overlooked in global climate strategies. Grasslands and savannahs play a critical role in carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience, yet have received less attention than forests in UNFCCC negotiations. This UN initiative seeks to address this imbalance by promoting policy integration, scientific recognition, and global awareness of these vital ecosystems. It underscores the UN’s commitment to comprehensive climate action that includes all biomes and supports sustainable pastoralist livelihoods worldwide.